Road Trip to Paradise: Driving from Brooklyn Park, Minnesota to Paradise, Nevada
Are you ready for an epic road trip to Paradise? From the northern suburbs of Minneapolis to the shimmering lights of Las Vegas, the journey covers over 1,500 miles through five different states. But fear not, fellow traveler, for we’ve got you covered with all the info you need to make this trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible. In this article, we’ll highlight the different routes you can take, the distances involved, and how long you can expect each leg of the journey to take. So buckle up, and let’s hit the road!
Route 1: I-94 W and I-90 W
Distance: 1,534 miles
The most direct route from Brooklyn Park to Paradise takes you west on I-94, then south on I-29 and west on I-90 through South Dakota, Wyoming, and Utah. You’ll pass through the Badlands National Park, Black Hills, and Salt Lake City on the way to Las Vegas.
Total driving time: Approximately 24 hours
Recommended stops:
- Badlands National Park: Explore the rugged beauty of this unique landscape, known for its colorful rock formations and abundant wildlife.
- Mount Rushmore National Memorial: Marvel at the giant carved faces of U.S. presidents in the Black Hills of South Dakota.
- Yellowstone National Park: If you have extra time, detour north to Yellowstone for some of the most stunning natural scenery in the country.
Route 2: I-94 W, I-29 S, I-90 W, and I-25 S
Distance: 1,611 miles
For a slightly longer but more scenic route, head southwest on I-29 to Sioux Falls, then west on I-90 through the Badlands and Black Hills. Instead of continuing on I-80 to Salt Lake City, turn south on I-25 and drive through Colorado and New Mexico to Las Vegas.
Total driving time: Approximately 26 hours
Recommended stops:
- Custer State Park: Enjoy the stunning scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife of this beautiful park in the Black Hills.
- Garden of the Gods: Unwind with a leisurely stroll or some rock-climbing in the stunning sandstone formations of this Colorado park.
- Santa Fe: Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of this charming New Mexico city, known for its art galleries, museums, and food scene.
Route 3: US-169 S and I-40 W
Distance: 1,700 miles
If you’re looking for a more leisurely pace and a chance to explore some of the less-traveled back roads of America, consider heading south on US-169 through Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas before turning west on I-40 through New Mexico and Arizona.
Total driving time: Approximately 30 hours
Recommended stops:
- Joplin, MO: Explore the quirky Route 66 memorabilia and vintage shops in this charming Missouri town.
- Cadillac Ranch, TX: Snap some Instagram-worthy photos of the iconic brightly painted old Cadillacs buried nose-first in the Texas desert.
- Grand Canyon National Park: Take a detour to one of the world’s most famous landmarks and enjoy breathtaking views of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Whichever route you choose, be sure to take plenty of breaks, stay well-rested and hydrated, and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way. Safe travels!